Why a technology
roadmap is important
Roadmapping
IfM approach
Consultancy
Courses
Case studies
Resources
Roadmapping
IfM approach
Consultancy
Courses
Case studies
Resources
This guide will help you with why technology roadmaps are important including what a technology roadmap is, why you should apply this approach and what makes a roadmap successful.
This guide will help you with why technology roadmaps are important including what a technology roadmap is, why you should apply this approach and what makes a roadmap successful.
WHAT IS A TECHNOLOGY ROADMAP?
Generally, the term that precedes ‘roadmap’ implies the focus for the application. So, a ‘technology’ roadmap indicates that the focus of attention is technology, with more attention and space allocated to this area. However, this does not mean that the focus is on technology alone, but rather the role of technology within the broader system. This includes the benefits sought from the technology, together with development and deployment enablers and barriers.
The term ‘strategic’ roadmap is a general description that applies to most roadmaps, given the strategic focus and benefits of the method. Therefore, a technology roadmap will be strategic if facilitated correctly to answer the six key strategic questions that should be present in any roadmapping process and template. This differentiates the approach from more operational technology/ product roadmaps which have a narrower and shorter-term focus, closely aligned with project and programme plans, and process maps.
Would you like to see how you can create your own roadmap including examples and resources? Download the complete guide ‘An Introduction to Strategic and Technology Roadmaps’.
WHY SHOULD YOU USE A TECHNOLOGY ROADMAP?
The main reason for developing technology roadmaps is to align the outputs of technology development with the strategic needs of the organisation or sector, in terms of desired product, service and system functionality and performance.
The visual nature and systems-orientation of roadmapping helps to address the complex and interdependent nature of technology development. Roadmaps support communication within technical teams, with commercial functions, and with external customers, suppliers, and other partners such as university research groups.
Roadmapping originally emerged in complex high-tech sectors in the USA in the 1960s, such as aerospace, energy, and semiconductors. Most roadmapping practice still focuses on technology-intensive systems, although the approach is more generally applicable and has been adopted and adapted in many other sectors over the past three decades.
ROADMAP EXAMPLE – RNLI
Find out how IfM Engage worked with the RNLI to create a series of roadmaps, including exploring the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for search and rescue.
“Roadmapping provides a great way to bring together key stakeholders in any project and draw out their expertise and insights in the spirit of openness.”
Will Roberts, Future Lifesaving Innovation Lead, RNLI
ROADMAP EXAMPLE – RNLI
Find out how IfM Engage worked with the RNLI to create a series of roadmaps, including exploring the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for search and rescue.
“Roadmapping provides a great way to bring together key stakeholders in any project and draw out their expertise and insights in the spirit of openness.”
Will Roberts, Future Lifesaving Innovation Lead, RNLI
FIND THE RIGHT APPROACH FOR YOUR CHALLENGE
Strategic roadmapping
For creating business unit, corporate, sector or policy roadmaps.
Technology roadmapping
For creating product, service and technology roadmaps.
ENGAGE WITH US
IfM Engage is highly experienced in the development and application of roadmapping, having helped over 300 organisations to develop roadmaps to support their strategic and technology innovation planning. We take a blended approach including consultancy, training, and mentoring to build internal capabilities and expertise.
IfM Engage is part of the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) and our approach is built on University of Cambridge research. We keep abreast of the latest findings, integrating these into our toolkit to maintain our world-leading approach to roadmapping.
Are you interested in more information on how to develop a roadmap including examples and resources? Download the complete guide ‘An Introduction to Strategic and Technology Roadmaps’.
